How do I secure my plot?
An initial deposit of between $3000 and $5000 is paid directly to the builder by way of credit card. That is all that is required to secure your plot for approx. 60 days (subject to developer). How much deposit is needed?
Depending on the developer, the deposit monies required is between 10% and 30%, paid on exchange of contracts, approximately 60 days after the placing of your plot deposit. This is usually done by means of a bank transfer directly to the developer. It is at this time that the price of your home is finalised. When is the remainder due?
The final balance is due when completion (closing) takes place on the property. This again is dependent upon the developer but for new-build homes this is usually between 8 and 14 months from exchange of contracts. Are there any other monies I need to find?
Yes. At completion (closing) there will be an amount due called the closing costs consisting of items such as pre-payment for taxes, insurance, notary costs and title insurances. The amount is dependent on many factors like the purchase price, mortgage amount, level of annual property taxes etc. and this is typically 3% of the purchase price of the home. For example: $300k home @ 3% closing costs = $9000.. I am a foreign buyer. What is the best way to convert my currency?
You can approach your bank for foreign currency services, but the best foreign exchange rates are provided by forex specialists who will also be more atuned to the requirments of foreign property buyers and offer greater currency transfer options and rates. Can you help me with a mortgage? We most certainly can. We can advise you on your best options and our licenced associates are perfectly positioned to give the very best up to date advice to provide maximum benefit to a purchase.
Which type of mortgage is best for me? This frequently asked question depends totally on your personal preferences and financial situation. There are various types of loans available and our advisors will help you identify the one that is best for you.
What happens with legal advice? Our licensed property sales broker will be on hand to help and guide with reliable advice in all matters.
How much will the furnishings cost me? Typically: absolutely nothing! If you choose the wonderful standard package included by many builders there is nothing to pay. These are what are known as 'turnkey packages', which means that all you have to add to the property, is yourself! You may of course wish to upgrade some of the furniture or electrical equipment. That is easily done through your appointed agent and builder. If you would like to avail yourself of the services of our professional interior design specialist, it is available upon request. These standard packages include all carpets and curtains, all electrical goods such as cooker, fridge, microwave, TV's plus dish and clothes washers, lights, beds and general furniture.
What happens after I have purchased? Unlike many other property sales companies we are definitely interested in looking after both you and your property over a long period of time. Our relationships with property management companies means that we can add value to a home purchase as your home is NEEDED to rent to the big international holiday travel companies. Currently we can offer extended periods of no-cost ownership for new-build property, complimented by options for guaranteed rentals / leaseback arrangements extending to fifty weeks per year for all vacation-rental property.
What about looking after my home when I am not there? This is possibly the biggest single question you will have to consider. As actual owners of vacation-rental property in Florida we can inform and advise as to the pitfalls of not having the right property management company in place. From having the grass cut to changing a light bulb to making sure that your property is occupied as and when you wish it to be, we can arrange everything for you - and we do it well.
What about a bank account and paying my bills? A bank account can be opened in minutes with a minimum of $100. You will need this to transfer not only your deposit but also your completion monies to the builder. You can then set up a system whereby you pay money into an escrow account so the management team can pay minor bills on your behalf. You will of course receive a detailed account of all expenditure and income.
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